Thread: I will never shred cheese again because I now know how it feels.

Hello all,

Today was my first straight razor shave.... Ouch... I know, I know, I know, its me. I hope that I get better at this because I feel like a stunt double for the movie face off. When I found this amazing forum I learned what I was doing wrong. I was under the impression that you needed to be 30 degrees or HIGHER. Boy was I wrong, I don't think face planting the pavement at 70mph could feel any worse. I will know better tomorrow (or the next day) when I try it again though.

What did you use for a razor? Was it shave ready and did you read enough to know to go slow with no pressure? And just do a little bit at a time ?? Keep reading and make sure your razor came from a reputable source that was ready to shave if not send it out instead of doing that again , plus what kind of razor was it, not one of those eBay RSO IS IT Let us know. Tc

Thanks for the response. The razor I used is a Gold Dollar 208 that I purchased from theshavenetwork.com. The razor was honed at the site, and after about 20 passes over the crappy strop that came with it, it was good to go. I did not know that this forum existed until after my shave tonight, and I have already learned what my problem was. I was using an angel of about 45 degrees on my face. Let me know what you think of the razor and the vendor that I purchased if you don't mind. I have contacted a member of this forum about restoring a Union Spike straight that I found in a wall behind an old medicine cabinet.

Gold Dollar is hit and miss. Not suggested as one of the better choices. Some get them and do great but.....You would be better off with a razor from the classifieds. Buying your first Razor is a good read :<0)

Just want to add.... I started out kind of the same way as you. Many do. It's part of the learning curve. You got a taste of blood and hunger for more . Good for you. You'll get it.

theshavenetwork.com

Must resist the urge not to Bash.

When I wanted to get into wet shaving, I bought my first razor here off the classified section. (A dovo round point) They will be more expensive than an eBay find, but most come shave ready and cleaned. Don't give up, once you get the hang of it straight razor shaving is awesome

When I started I used a LOT of post shave treatment. It takes a while for your face to be accustomed to straight shaving. I used Aveeno for men post shave balm, others like Nivea. Geo Trumpers skin food is good as well. Find a nice post shave lotion that will cool and calm your skin when you finish shaving.

And as others have mentioned, a shave ready razor makes a world of difference. Read around a bit a practice stropping so you are not unintentionally dulling your edge

Read the beginner's section

It is highly recommended you get with a local member/mentor for some hands on training. This link will find members in your area.

http://straightrazorpalace.com/memberlist.php?do=search

I have been using straight razors for 16+ years on myself and customers daily (i am a barber) and i still nick people and myself occasionally, 3 or 4 days ago i left an inch long cut in my face because i got in a hurry. It happens, youll build muscle memory, it does help to pull the skin tight as well if possible with your free hand as well.

Originally Posted by Badgister

Must resist the urge not to Bash.

Well, I guess we could praise their marketing.
Isn't that the most important thing for a beginner to get a good shave?